Mr. Rengifo to Mr. Sherman.
Washington, February 18, 1898.
Honorable Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to inform you that I have received express instructions from my Government to convey to the President of the United States of America, as I hereby do, through your excellency, an expression of the very sincere and deep pain with which the Government of Colombia has learned of the lamentable disaster which has befallen the United States war vessel Maine, together with the expression of its sincere condolence.
With sentiments of the highest and most distinguished consideration, I have the honor once more to sign myself, Mr. Secretary of State, your obedient servant,
Chargé d’Affaires ad interim.